Belarus gains multiscreen service

The Belarusian incumbent Beltelecom has launched a multiscreen service named Smart Zala.

Enabled by SmartLabs, it allows customers to view, record and catch up with TV content, set parental controls and manage their subscriptions.

The new service is available on Windows and Mac OS computers, Android and iOS tablets and mobile devices. It will also be available on smart TVs in the very near future.

A key feature of Smart Zala is the ability to start watching content on one supported device and then switch to viewing it on another.

Commenting on the launch, Mikhail Grachev, SmartLabs CEO, said: “People expect more viewing freedom today.

“With Smart Zala, Beltelecom’s multiscreen solution, the user can select a viewing option to match his or her taste, mood and surroundings. We are confident that Beltelecom subscribers will make the best use of the new feature. We are looking forward to implementing more innovative projects for the leader of the Belarusian telecommunications market.”

Rostelecom goes multiscreen with SmartLabs

SmartLabs enables Rostelecom to deliver content on multiple devices

Rostelecom subscribers can now enjoy their content on PCs, laptops, tablets and Smart TVs.

The new multiscreen feature is an extension of Rostelecom´s successful IPTV service, which is powered by the SmartLabs IPTV Solution, and delivers digital TV services to over 2.5 million homes across Russia.

At the heart of the SmartLabs solution are the SmartTUBE Service Delivery Platform (SDP) and SmartTUBE UI, with client applications, which combine to deliver a state of the art TV service on STBs and now also PCs, laptops, tablets and Smart TVs.

Users are not only able to view content on multiple devices but they are also able to pause a show, or a movie, on one device and resume playback on a different device. This enhanced service offers Rostelecom customers a new level of flexibility designed specifically to address their demands to consume content on different devices and not just on a TV with a STB. The multiscreen offering will be extended further in the near future and support for a variety of smartphones are planned to be added to the service.

The multiscreen service was launched after three months of trials and Rostelecom hopes the increased flexibility will offer customers an improved viewing experience, boost the use of on-demand services and attract new customers to the service.

“For Rostelecom´s subscribers, we have taken TV viewing to a totally new level,” said Mikhail Grachev, SmartLabs CEO. “Now the user can choose the best device to watch any content on. Today´s subscribers seek more viewing freedom, and we are happy to cater to their ever-changing demands. Our focus is to expand the operator´s portfolio with innovative services which are appealing to their subscribers.”